Chassis

The Audi drive select system, which is optional with the new TT Roadster* and standard with the TTS Roadster*, is the mastermind for dynamic driving. The driver chooses between the modes comfort, auto, dynamic and efficiency as well as individual mode with the push of a button. Audi drive select influences the function of the accelerator and power steering and incorporates multiple auxiliary modules, including the S tronic and quattro drivetrain, the cruise control system, the deluxe automatic air conditioning system, the LED and Matrix LED headlights.

Another component under the control of Audi drive select is the adaptive damping system Audi magnetic ride (standard on the TTS Roadster, optional on the TT Roadster). It uses a special hydrocarbon oil with microscopically small magnetic particles to vary the damping in three stages. In dynamic mode, the system makes the car hug the road more closely. The wheels are precisely braced during cornering, and body roll is largely suppressed – making steering response and handling even more spontaneous. Audi magnetic ride counters body pitch during braking.

Sporty gearing: the progressive steeringThe technological expertise behind the new Audi TT Roadster and TTS Roadster also includes the chassis. Major components of the front axle are made of aluminum. The rack of the standard progressive steering is geared so that the ratio changes with the steering angle – somewhat less direct around the center position; very direct when the wheel is turned far.

The electromechanical power assistance harmonizes perfectly with this sporty characteristic, decreasing as speed increases. The progressive steering works in close conjunction with three assistance systems – the standard attention assist and the optional Audi active lane assist and park assist systems.

The rear suspension of the open-topped two-seater uses three steel transverse links and one trailing link in order to absorb the lateral and longitudinal forces separately. Their springs and dampers are separate from one another and respond very precisely. The body is lowered ten millimeters (0.4 in) on the TTS Roadster, with the S line sport package and with Audi magnetic ride.

All tires offer better performance compared with the previous model, yet rolling resistance has been reduced significantly. A tire pressure loss indicator and a repair kit are standard.

The large wheels provide room for powerful brakes. The front discs are internally ventilated and measure between 312 and 338 millimeters (12.3 and 13.3 inches) in diameter, depending on the engine. The TTS Roadster has newly developed aluminum calipers on the front axle, which together weigh five kilograms (11.0 lb) less than the components in the previous model. The calipers are painted black (optionally red) and bear TTS logos. The electromechanical parking brake, another innovation, acts on the rear wheels in all model variants.

Exact handling for everyday sporty driving: the ESCThe likewise newly developed Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC) rounds off the handling characteristics perfectly. During fast cornering, torque vectoring – a software function of the ESC – minimally brakes the inside front wheel (with front-wheel drive) or both inside wheels (with quattro all-wheel drive). This enables both wheels on the axle to transfer more lateral force. Due to the difference in traction forces, the Roadster turns slightly into the corner, making handling even more precise, neutral, sportier and stable.

The ESC leaves the choice to the driver: In Sport mode, the system remains active and enhances driving pleasure. In combination with the quattro drivetrain, it facilitates spontaneous turn-in and controlled drifts via active engagement and light braking interventions when understeering. If the driver pushes the button for longer than three seconds, the ESC turns off completely to allow puristic handling.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.

Further information about the official fuel consumption figures and official, specific CO2 emissions of new passenger cars can be found in the “Guide to fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electricity consumption of new cars,” which is available free of charge from all sales outlets and from DAT (Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH), Hellmuth-Hirth-Strasse 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen, Germany (http://www.dat.de).